England and Spain want to leave no stone unturned, with both teams giving their all during the ongoing Euro 2024 finals. The first half between the two nations ended in a draw, with both teams failing to make the most of their chances in the attacking third. Gareth Southgate’s England struggled around Rodri as the midfielder dictated the flow in the center of the field.

However, England could breathe a sigh of relief with Luis de la Fuente forced to take off his star player before the start of the second off. Rodri was seen struggling with his left thigh as the player limped off the field. While the medical staff did assess the player, it looks like he was deemed unfit for the rest of the game with Martin Zubimendi brought in to replace the defensive midfielder.

While it looked like the change might hurt Spain, the side showed their control with Lamine Yamal and Nico Williams linking up to produce the team’s first goal. However, just when it looked like La Rojas would run away with the game, Gareth Southgate introduced Cole Palmer who parried through Spain’s half in Rodri’s absence before smashing the equalizer.

With the game heading into added time, it looked like both teams were in for a gritty 30 minutes. But Mikel Oyarzabal had different plans as the substitute left Kyle Walker and Jordan Pickford in the dust to find the winner for his country.

Rodri bags Player of the Tournament at Euro 2024

While the Manchester City star might have not played a prominent role in the finals, his performances throughout the campaign did not go unnoticed. The prize distribution ceremony saw Rodri pick up the Player of the Tournament award to wrap up his campaign in style. With the award in his cabinet, fans have now linked the player with the Ballon d’Or award.

It might seem like a farfetched idea at first. But, since the start of 2023, Rodri has only lost 4 games. In that time, he’s won eight trophies and four Player of the Tournament awards. The Manchester City man continues to grow with every passing year and it will be interesting to see if the player is in contention for the award. Jude Bellingham, Vinicus Jr, and Toni Kroos’ bid to lift the coveted award has taken a massive dent, with all three players failing to get their hands on the major international trophy in the calendar year.

Do you think Rodri deserves to win the Ballon d’Or? Sound off in the comments below.